Advocacy

Americans depend on their prescriptions — but from cancer treatments to EpiPens, drug companies' skyrocketing prices are pushing life-saving treatments out of reach for those who need them. We pay among the highest prescription drug prices in the world so drug companies can make billions. No one should have to choose between buying medicine or buying food for our families. That's not just wrong — it's shameful.

Since the start of the 2019 Idaho state legislative session, AARP Idaho has worked diligently with the Legislature towards a clean expansion of Medicaid as overwhelming decided by voters last November.

On March 19, Idahoans of all ages will have the opportunity to participate in a “telephone town hall" meeting with Senate Minority Leader Michelle Stennett and House Minority Leader Mat Erpelding. AARP Idaho state director Lupe Wissel will moderate the conversation.

Today, AARP announced the launch of ‘ Stop Rx Greed,’ a nationwide campaign aimed at lowering prescription drug prices. The goal of AARP’s sustained campaign is to help drive down drug prices for Idahoans and all Americans by advocating for a variety of legislative, executive, and regulatory actions at both the federal and state level.

On February 11, AARP Idaho staff and volunteer advocates from around the state will gather at the Capitol representing the more than 185,000 AARP members in Idaho. AARP is the largest organization with a membership in the Gem State.

By Lupe Wissel, AARP Idaho state director

AARP members are invited to spend a fun, sociable and informative day at the state Capitol on Monday, February 11, 2019 for AARP Idaho Lobby Day from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

AARP Idaho volunteer network meetings resume in January and that means a new legislative session and an opportunity to make your voice heard.

On Nov. 6, Idaho voters spoke in favor of expanding health coverage. Now it’s time for Idaho legislators to respond by fully funding and implementing Medicaid Expansion as passed by Idaho voters.

We recently held a statewide telephone town hall with Governor-elect Brad Little. Dozens of callers from across the Gem State had questions regarding Medicaid expansion, climate change, minimum wage, education and more. You can listen to the full conversation HERE.